Keeping the hot out and the cool in

It is usually in the winter months, when the blustery winds are blowing, that we are reminded of the importance of weatherizing our homes to seal leaks and keep the cold weather outdoors. However, during a hot Oklahoma summer it is also important to consider weatherization, this time to keep the cool air in. This week, the Grand River Dam Authority is passing along a few tips from energy.gov, that are helpful if you are struggling with the hot air coming in and the cool air going out. 

• First, we always think about caulking and weatherstripping around doors and windows that leak air but its also important to seal leaks where plumbing, ducting and electric wiring comes through walls, floors, ceilings, and soffits over cabinets.
• Consider installing foam gaskets behind outlet and switch plates on walls.
• Inspect dirty spots on any visual insulation for air leaks and mold. Seal leaks with low-expansion spray foam made for this purpose and install house flashing if needed.
• Look for dirty spots on your ceiling paint and carpet, which may indicate air leaks at interior wall/ceiling joints and wall/floor joists and caulk them.

• Check your dryer vent to be sure it is not blocked. This will save energy and may prevent a fire.
• Replace exterior door bottoms and thresholds with ones that have pliable sealing gaskets.
• Use foam sealant on larger gaps around windows, baseboards, and other places where air may leak out.
• Consider hiring an energy assessor or other weatherization expert to test your home for air tightness.

Again, these are just a few tips that can help keep you house properly sealed during all seasons of the year. Your friends at GRDA hope you have a safe, cool summer.

GRDA is Oklahoma’s largest public power electric utility; fully funded by revenues from electric and water sales instead of taxes. Each day, GRDA strives to be an “Oklahoma agency of excellence” by focusing on the 5 E’s: electricity, economic development, environmental stewardship, employees, and efficiency. 

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